Favorites in the midsize crossover segment, the 2020 Ford Edge and Honda CR-V offer big servings of passenger space, quiet comfort, and high-tech amenities. Which is right for you? Our comparison guide is here to help you decide!
Roomy Comfort: It’s a Tie!
These midsize crossovers will bring generous passenger space and supportive seating to your daily drive. The Edge does offer slightly more cargo space (39.2 cubic feet) than the CR-V (37.6 cubes), but both models make great road-trippers, with plenty of space for your bags. And the 2020 Ford Edge and Honda CR-V each have a luxurious side, with options that include upscale leather upholstery and panoramic sunroofs.
Best Tech Lineup: 2020 Ford Edge
If you’re accustomed to cutting-edge tech features, you’ll feel at home in the Edge. The Sync 3 infotainment system, with its responsive 8-inch touch screen, is standard in every model. The system also includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, technology that offers hands-free access to your oft-used apps. And every Edge also includes a long list of driver safety aids. Items like lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring help you spot danger before it strikes.
The Honda CR-V doesn’t come standard with quite as many modern necessities. However, it does include the Honda Sensing suite of safety aids, which means it can also help you avoid accidents. If you want a modern infotainment system, however, you must pay extra and upgrade to at least the EX trim level, which includes a 7-inch touch screen and complete smartphone integration. Shoppers should also note that Honda’s touch screen is notoriously finicky and, without any separate controls available, you’re forced to deal with it.
Sporty Capabilities: 2020 Ford Edge
The Edge is the quicker, more capable crossover. Shoppers can choose from two engines, both of which leave the CR-V in the dust. The SE, SEL, and Titanium trim models use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which takes on the competition with 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. The sporty ST is even more fun to drive. Its exclusive twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 cranks out 335 horses and 380 pound-feet of torque.
Every Honda CR-V has the same engine, a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder. It’s certainly efficient, but it’s not exactly a speed demon, supplying 190 horses and 179 pound-feet of torque.
Save on Fuel: 2020 Honda CR-V
The midsize CR-V can help you save money on fuel. This Honda crossover is available with a hybrid powertrain that helps it achieve up to 38 mpg combined (40 city/35 highway mpg). With its gas-powered four-cylinder engine, the CR-V earns up to 30 mpg combined (28/34 mpg).
With the Edge’s standard powertrain and front-wheel drive, it achieves up to 24 mpg combined (21/29 mpg). With all-wheel drive, Edge models with the standard engine are slightly less thrifty, earning 23 mpg combined (21/28 mpg).
The Verdict
The 2020 Ford Edge—with its roomy cabin, fast-moving tech features, and peppy powertrains—is our favorite. Of course, if you’re after the thriftiest possible ride, there’s always the Honda CR-V.